As we approach 2026, China's Great Firewall (GFW) is constantly adapting, causing many international VPN services to be unreliable or completely inaccessible. Users often mention instances where a service functions one day but is blocked the next. This raises an important inquiry: “Which VPN services remain operational in China at the moment?”
This guide compiles real-world testing outcomes from numerous locations in China (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu) and considers all major internet service providers (ISPs). Only services that demonstrated stability during high-traffic periods are included.
Assessment Criteria
- Rate of successful connections;
- Consistency throughout the day;
- Level of obfuscation effectiveness;
- Capability to bypass deep packet inspection (DPI);
- Resilience of the nodes;
- Streaming access ability;
- Performance speed;
- Availability of backup protocols.
Categories of VPN That Operate in China
1. Enhanced Obfuscation (TLS + WebSocket) Options
These represent the most durable alternatives:
- Obfuscation through TLS;
- WebSocket camouflage;
- Randomized padding;
- Dynamic routing;
- Daily changes of IP.
2. Routes Specifically Optimized for China (CN2/IEPL)
Ideal for high-speed access:
- Low latency;
- Stable even during peak usage;
- Excellent for streaming or remote work activities.
3. Lightweight Obfuscation for Mobile Optimization
Ideal for 4G/5G mobile connectivity:
- Low-bandwidth obfuscation technology;
- Rapid connection switching;
- Compatible with China Mobile and Unicom.
4. Hybrid Solutions Combining SmartDNS and Encrypted Modes
Optimal for accessing Netflix and YouTube:
- Quicker than comprehensive encryption;
- More seamless playback;
- Perfect for Smart TVs and Apple TV.
5. Enterprise-Level Encrypted Tunnels
Most suitable for:
- Remote work;
- SSH/Git applications;
- Corporate infrastructure;
- Long-term connection sessions.
Services That No Longer Function in China
- Unobfuscated WireGuard;
- Standard OpenVPN setups;
- PPTP/L2TP/IPSec connections;
- Free offerings;
- Static, unchanging IP addresses;
- Non-optimized international brands.
How to Determine if Your VPN Is Effective?
- Does it entail obfuscation features?
- Does it automatically switch servers?
- Does it provide lines optimized for China?
- Does it maintain connectivity during peak hours?
- Does it offer alternative protocols?
Final Thoughts
As of 2026, only a select few VPN solutions function properly in China. Those that incorporate robust obfuscation, backup protocols, and optimizations for Chinese networks provide the most dependable service. Mobile VPN List encompasses all these characteristics, making it one of the few solutions that remains consistently effective in China today.
